Cebu prepares contingency plan against impact of US-Iran war

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Bariuatro directed all Capitol offices to implement fuel-saving measures, including reducing unnecessary travel, to ensure responsible consumption and contingency preparedness in anticipation of a possible fuel crisis.

Baricutro issued Executive Order-15 on March 2, after she convened an emergency meeting to discuss precautionary measures amid the looming conflict between the United States and Iran and its possible impact on global fuel supply and prices.

She also ordered all departments to submit their respective fuel conservation plans as part of a coordinated provincial response.  However, EO-15 provides exemptions for emergency and essential services, including ambulances, disaster response operations, and emergency social services, to ensure uninterrupted delivery of critical assistance to the public.

The Provincial government is also prepared with its contingency support mechanisms for possible returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who may be affected by the escalating situation abroad, ensuring assistance systems are ready should repatriation become necessary.

Baricuatro said, Cebu Province is in constant communication and coordination with the Department of National Defense (DOJ), the Department of Foreign Affairs DFA), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and other national agencies to ensure timely information sharing, preparedness, and appropriate response measures.

“Early and timely preparation, prudent resource management, and coordinated action are crucial efforts to protect Cebuanos from possible economic and humanitarian impacts,” Baricuatro said. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

 

 

Baricuatro champions new era for women governance

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro is reshaping the narrative of leadership that proves strength is not define by gender, but by conviction, clarity and the courage to serve with purpose.

“Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room.  It is about listening, understanding, and making firm decisions that uplift communities and protect the most vulnerable,” Baricuatro shared, in one of her weekly press briefings.

The governor noted that in a political landscape long defined by traditional power structures and as one of the few women to rise to the highest level of provincial leadership in Cebu, she wants to break the stereotypes in what has historically been a male-dominated space.

She said that in her administration, she demonstrates that empathy and decisiveness are not opposing forces, but complementary strengths that lead to more inclusive and responsive governance.

Baricuatro’s approach to redefine strength in public service challenges outdated perceptions that equate compassion with weakness.  Under her leadership, programs have been designed to address real-life concerns faced by families, women, and children, while maintaining disciplined fiscal management, infrastructure development, and public accountability.

Baricuatro presented her governance model blends, that of Decisive policy-making grounded in consultation and data; community-centered solutions that prioritize long-term social impact; firm leadership that ensures programs are implemented efficiently and with transparency.

This balance has earned her recognition as a leader who is neither “soft” nor symbolic, but strategic, results-driven, and deeply connected to the people she serves.  Central to Governor Baricuatro’s agenda is the belief that empowering women strengthens entire communities.

She added that her administration continues to champion women and child-focused initiatives; expand access to maternal healthcare and nutrition services; strengthen protection systems against violence and exploitation; support livelihood and skills programs for women-led households and promote education and safe environments for children and youth.

“These are not just social programs.  They are investments in the future stability and progress of our province. Our goal is not simply to open doors for women, it is to normalize their presence at every decision-making table,” she said.

Governor Baricuatro’s rise reflects a broader national shift toward more inclusive leadership—one that values collaboration as much as authority and recognizes that resilience can be expressed through both resolve and compassion.

By demonstrating that effective governance can be both empathetic and unyielding when necessary, she is paving the way for more women to step forward, participate, and lead.

As her administration continues to implement reforms and people-centered programs, Governor Baricuatro remains focused on building a model of governance that is transparent, equitable, and future-ready, one that proves leadership is defined not by tradition, but by impact. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

Baricuatro strengthens grassroots presence, inclusive governance

CEBU CITY – Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro champions an approach to leadership anchored on inclusivity, accessibility, and constant engagement with communities, ensuring that governance is shaped not from offices, but from the lived realities of Cebuanos across the province.

“Inclusive governance means listening first before acting.  The best policies come from the voices of our farmers, fisherfolk, women, youth, and grassroots sectors who understand their communities better than anyone else,” said Baricuatro, in one of her press conferences at Capitol.

The governor has since made it a priority to regularly visit far-flung barangays, island municipalities, and geographically isolated areas, bringing her presence on the ground allowing her to personally assess local conditions, respond to immediate concerns, and build direct relationships with community leaders and residents.

She bared that through listening tours, consultations, and community dialogues, she has institutionalized a participatory approach to policymaking to ensure that programs are based on real needs rather than assumptions.

These engagements have helped shape initiatives on livelihood support, disaster preparedness, access to basic services, and local economic development, she added and local stakeholders have welcomed the governor’s presence, noting that her visits signal a leadership style that values consultation over top-down directives.

“Makita gyud namo nga ang gobernador maminaw ug motubag sa among panginahanglan. Dili lang siya moanhi para sa seremonya—moanhi siya aron makig-istorya ug masabtan ang sitwasyon.” (We have seen that the governor listens and answers to our needs. She does not only come here for the ceremony, but she comes to really talk to us and understand our situation.) shared one community leader during a recent island consultation.

Baricuatro emphasized that inclusive governance is essential to building trust in public institutions and ensuring that development reaches every corner of Cebu.  “Our goal is simple: no community should feel forgotten.  When government is present at the grassroots, solutions become more responsive, more humane, and more sustainable,” she added.

The governor said that her administration continues to position participation, transparency, and community partnership at the heart of provincial leadership—strengthening a model of governance where every Cebuano has a voice in shaping the province’s future. (Photos: Capitol PIO/Pam Baricuatro-FB)

Baricuatro advances crisis leadership, disaster readiness to protect Cebu communities

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuaro pushes for crisis leadership reinforcing a governance approach centered on preparedness, rapid response, and coordinated action ensuring that every Cebuano is protected before, during, and after disasters.

Baricuatro placed disaster readiness at the core of provincial leadership, shifting from reactive emergency measures to a proactive, data-driven strategy designed to minimize risk, safeguard lives, and accelerate recovery.

“Our duty is to make sure Cebu is ready not only to withstand crises, but to emerge stronger from them,” Baricuatro said, adding that disaster preparedness is ultimately about protecting livelihoods, sustaining economic activity, and ensuring that families can recover quickly and with dignity.

As climate risks intensify across the region, Cebu Province continues to strengthen its systems, partnerships, and leadership to safeguard communities and build a culture of preparedness that endures beyond any single storm as Cebu continues to face the realities of stronger typhoons and floods.

“Disasters should never catch us unprepared. Our responsibility is to anticipate, act early, and stand with our communities every step of the way,” the governor said.

Baricuatro has directed the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) to strengthen its use of real-time weather intelligence, hazard mapping, and predictive data analysis to guide early warnings and pre-emptive evacuations in high-risk areas.

She bared that local governments are now equipped with clearer protocols, faster information flows, and synchronized response systems ensuring that decisions are made based on science, not urgency alone.  This shift enables Cebu to move critical resources ahead of landfall, reduce exposure in vulnerable communities, and avoid the delays that historically complicated disaster response.

The governor has prioritized seamless coordination among LGUs, national agencies, and uniformed services, creating an integrated response network that activates even before severe weather hits.  Joint planning and regular inter-agency simulations now align provincial teams with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Coast Guard, and national disaster authorities allowing rescue, relief, and clearing operations to begin immediately when needed.

“The goal is simple: no duplication, no confusion, just unified action.” Baricuatro maintained a hands-on presence during severe weather events, personally overseeing emergency operations, monitoring evacuation readiness, and ensuring that frontline responders receive the logistical support required to act swiftly.

Political observers said that her leadership model emphasizes clarity, calm decision-making, and direct engagement with affected communities strengthening public confidence during uncertain moments.

Beyond emergency response, the provincial government is investing in long-term resilience measures, including strengthened early warning systems across municipalities; pre-positioning of relief supplies and emergency equipment; Climate-resilient infrastructure planning in coordination with national agencies; capacity-building programs for barangay-level disaster response teams and continuous risk assessment to guide land-use and development decisions.

These initiatives aim not only to respond to disasters but to reduce their impact over time as climate patterns evolve for a safer, more prepared Cebu. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

 

 

PBBM commits continued support for typhoon victims in Cebu

CEBU -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. committed the national government’s full and continued support for the people of Cebu seeing firsthand the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino and expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of lives, assuring affected families that the government will continue to assist them in recovering from the disaster.

"As long as the national government is needed, we will be here. We are not leaving. I made the same promise to Cebu, your Governor and your Mayor, that as long as the government, the national government is needed, we will be here. We are not leaving,” speaking after the situation briefing at the Cebu Provincial Capitol, Friday, November 7.

Marcos vowed to help the families of those with casualty, helping them to recover, to put back on their feet and do what the government can to make up for the loss that they suffered.  Prior to the briefing at Capitol, the President visited Liloan town and the City of Talisay to oversee the relief and recovery efforts being conducted by various government agencies.

The President said aside from providing the essential needs such as food and water to displaced families, the government will also extend financial assistance to those whose homes were damaged—P5,00 for partially damaged houses and P10,000 for those completely damaged houses.  Medical teams have also been deployed to treat injuries and prevent disease outbreaks in evacuation centers.

Marcos noted that the primary damage from the typhoon came from severe flooding rather than strong winds. He said the existing flood control structures, such as dikes and protective barriers, were damaged by the volume of rainfall.

The briefing at the Capitol also discussed the government’s relocation plans for families living in no-build zones. He said coordination with local government units (LGUs) is ongoing to identify safe relocation sites and provide temporary shelters for those who cannot return to their homes yet.

Meanwhile, the President reminded local officials to remain vigilant and prepared, even though the incoming weather disturbance is not expected to directly affect the Visayas region.

“Sa tingin namin, hindi naman yata dadaan dito sa Visayas pero mag-ingat pa rin lahat. At hindi natin alam dahil kami kung minsan lumilipat. Kami naman ngayon, Northern Luzon and Central Luzon ang nag-aabang para dito sa Uwan na parating,” Marcos said.

Severe Tropical Storm Fung-wong is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Friday midnight or early Saturday morning. It will be called Uwan locally. (Photos/PR: PND/PIA/Capitol PIO)

Baricuatro now chairs RDC7, vows to push big-ticket infra

CEBU – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro now chairs the Regional Development Council (RDC-7) seen by many as her edge and added influence to advance major infrastructure projects in Cebu and Bohol.  

Her appointment as RDC7 chair sparked some discussions among the opposition and has drawn debate and skepticism from some quarters within the DDS community saying that she shouldn’t accept the appointment if she is a true DDS supporter.

“One important point: Malacañang is fully aware of my political affiliation. They appointed me anyway. This isn’t about them being partisan; it’s about what’s best for Cebu. If the DDS community sees partisan bias here, I ask you to judge by results and by the outcomes for our people, not by slogans,” Baricuatro wrote in her Facebook post.

She said that with her at the helm of RDC-7, her top priority infrastructure projects will be accelerated and made possible, including the Metro Cebu Expressway and Water security and other road diversion projects.

This is not about politics as usual. It’s about Cebu getting a unified, national-backed plan that speeds up real, tangible benefits for families—jobs, healthcare, roads, schools, and locally driven development, Baricuatro added.

“I am really committed to bring big programs and projects to Cebu,” she said at her regular media briefing on October 29 at the Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT) where she inspected the facility's readiness ahead of the expected influx of passengers for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

Baricuatro points to some key initiatives already in motion such as the feasibility study for the Talisay–Naga Diversion Road that has been approved, a key project she wants completed within her term as governor and she plans to push for it in future RDC meetings.

She said that once this coastal road diversion is completed, this would ease traffic congestion along Cebu’s southern corridor passing through Talisay City, Minglanilla, and the City of Naga, providing motorists with an alternate route to and from southern Cebu.

Among her other prio
rities are water system projects, the Metro Cebu Expressway connecting the City of Naga in the south to Danao City in the north, and additional diversion roads across the province.

Baricuatro also recognized that her new role requires her to look beyond Cebu’s interests and work for the development of the entire Central Visayas region. “As committed, I am to deliver the best programs for Cebu, I will also do my best for the whole Region 7,” she stated.

Baricuatro is set to take her oath in November before the President in Malacañang where she plans to discuss the region’s infrastructure priorities with the chief executive. Her primary goal is to promote the welfare of Cebu and the region.

The RDC is the highest policy-making body in the region and serves as the counterpart of the DEPDev Board at the subnational level. It coordinates and directs economic and social development efforts, ensuring local initiatives align with national development goals. (Photos: DepDev-FB)

 

Baricuatro shares Cebu’s industrial growth vision

CEBU— Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro shared Cebu’s industrial growth vision to a group of stakeholders, various industry players and guests at the Cebu Industrial Summit on October 29 at Oakridge Pavilion, Oakridge Business Center in Mandaue City, hosted by the Aboitiz Economic Estates.

“Cebu today stands on solid ground. We may no longer be the country’s largest provincial economy, but we remain one of its strongest — a hub of trade, manufacturing, creativity, and innovation and more importantly, we are a province united by purpose, ready to transform our growth into something more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient,” said Baricuatro in her keynote message at the Summit.

To make this vision real, Baricuatro bared that Cebu is pursuing a new blueprint for industrial growth, one that combines strong infrastructure, sustainable innovation, and people-centered development.  Guided by its Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan (PDPFP), which is currently being updated, Cebu envisions that by 2035, the Province of Cebu will achieve balanced and inclusive growth.

Baricuatro added that secondary growth centers such as Danao City and Naga City make up the Metro Cebu corridor that will support industrial expansion in the area with adequate land and infrastructure for businesses and workers to back the existing north industrial corridors from Consolacion to Carmen.

Bogo City, San Remegio, Medellin, and Daanbantayan for the Northeast Corridor, with its vast lands, is ideal for development of renewable energy like Acciona’s 140-Megawatt solar farm.  Toledo City, Balamban and Pinamugajan for the West corridor will continue developing medium to heavy industries, integrated with neighboring corridors and the expanding Metro Cebu, the governor shared.

Baricuatro went on that Talisay City to Carcar on the other hand, focus on being an industrial corridor for the Southeast area while Bantayan and Camotes corridors will strengthen poultry and livestock production, and the Southwest corridors will sustain and diversify tourism, showcasing Cebu’s natural beauty, heritage, and culture.

Baricuatro describes Cebu’s blueprint a poly-centric development approach, with industrial corridors spreading progress and opportunities. She outlines her promise to ensure progress from urban centers to rural areas, emphasizing people, transparency, and collaboration as core principles.

Cebu is highlighted as a strong provincial economy, a hub of trade, manufacturing, creativity, and innovation, united by a common purpose. The province will prioritize human development, allocating over 30% of the proposed budget to healthcare.Key infrastructure projects, supported by international partners, include the Metro Cebu sewerage system and the fourth Cebu mountain bridge.

The coastal road will improve access to the upcoming international port in Consolation, and the Metro Cebu expressway will connect the entire island, Baricuatro emphasizes measuring progress by international standards, focusing on human development and environmental stewardship. 

“We stress the importance of partnership among government, the private sector, academia, civil society, and communities. We can not do it alone. The future of Cebu is envisioned as smart, sustainable, and inclusive, requiring collaboration to achieve this vision,” Baricuatro calls for working hand in hand to make Cebu a model of industrial excellence and human-centered growth.

The governor believes Cebu's story is just beginning anew, with the talent, drive, geography, and heart to lead in values and resilience. (Photos: MBCNewman & Capitol PIO FB)

Cebu holds ICT Congress 2025 for LGU digital transformation

CEBU – Cebu Province hosted the “Ato ang Sugbo: Uswag Digital — LGU ICT Congress 2025,” held at the Capitol Social Hall on October 27, with more than 40 local government units (LGUs) in Cebu and some 15 ICT private sector partners joined hands to bring together the brightest minds in technology governance and innovation after nine years of hiatus since the last ICT Congress in 2016.

“I know it’s been years since this has happened, so great job PICTO, DICT and other partners. And as I say, you have my all-out support kay kahiabwo ko ang uban dugay na gahulat nga mabalik ni nga klase nga gathering — one that reminds us how important it is to adapt, to learn, and to grow together,” Governor Pamela Baricuatro said, in her message at the event, commending the ICT community’s effort in reviving the Congress after nearly a decade.

Digital transformation is ultimately about people, not just technology.  Digital transformation isn’t just about gadgets or systems. It’s about people, Baricuatro said, she wants the LGUs to be confident and ready to embrace innovation.  “Technology should not replace compassion. It should amplify it. It should make our jobs easier so we can focus more on what matters most: serving our people,” the governor added.

The 2025 ICT Congress marked a major step forward for the Provincial Government of Cebu in its continuing efforts to strengthen local government digital transformation and inter-LGU collaboration. It is a vital platform for dialogue and partnership toward building a smarter, more connected, and future-ready Cebu, Baricuatro said.

Malcolm Sanchez, Provincial Board Member representing the Lone District of Mandaue, emphasized the importance of innovation-driven leadership in public service and the shared role of LGUs in driving Cebu’s digital agenda.

Paulo Uy, chairman of the Technical Working Group of the Provincial Information and Communications Technology Council (PICTC) presented the key highlights of the Congress that of an Executive Order creating the PICTC, that serves as the policy and coordinating body of the Provincial Government for ICT development and tasked to lead strategic initiatives on data integration, digital governance, and ICT infrastructure across the province.

The one-day Congress featured a series of technology updates and discussions from leading ICT experts and partners that talked about strengthening connectivity and digital infrastructure, the growing importance of data centers and cybersecurity, and the role of artificial intelligence in governance. Various sessions underscored how these technologies can support efficient service delivery, enhance transparency, and promote innovation and competitiveness within LGUs. 

Engr. Royden Rusiana of the DICT, in his closing message, encouraged sustained collaboration between the national and local governments, the private sector, and the community, reminding everyone that “digital transformation is not just about technology, but about people and partnerships.”

With the Provincial ICT Council set to convene soon, Cebu stands ready to lead the region in digital innovation, fostering smarter governance, stronger connectivity, and inclusive progress for every Cebuano. (Photos: Capitol PIO)

 

 

Baricuatro welcomes launching of Unified 911 in Cebu

CEBU—Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro welcomed the launching of the first Regional Command Center System of the new Unified 911 on October 25, at the PLDT-Jones Office in Cebu City, highlighting the significance of the Unified 911 system describing it as a symbol of coordination and preparedness.

“As Governor, I welcome this initiative, reminding everyone of the promise that someone will always answer the call for help,” Baricuatro said.  The Unified 911 system is described as a means to ensure faster response, clear communication, and a stronger connection between front liners, LGU, and the people, she added.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), with its attached agencies, launched the modernized Unified 911 system in September 2025 at the National Command Center (NCC), temporarily housed at the PLDT Building in Sampaloc, Manila.

As part of its nationwide rollout, Regional and Satellite Command Centers will be established across the country to make emergency services more responsive and language-inclusive. The first Visayas Regional Command Center, located at the PLDT-Jones Office in Cebu City, marks a major milestone in enhancing the government’s capacity to deliver fast, coordinated, and lifesaving emergency response services.

Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) director Jesus Fernandez described the launching as a wonderful moment for public safety and emergency preparedness in Cebu and the entire Visayas region.  The unified 911, Cebu satellite command center is more than just a center of operations. This facility represents the future of emergency management that is more connected, efficient and resilient, Fernandez said in his message at the event.

“It aligns Cebu with global standards for rapid, coordinated and effective crisis intervention. The integration of police, fire, medical and rescue services under one unified system will definitely reduce response time and ensure that resources are deployed faster smarter,” Fernandez added.

PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez also emphasized the importance of the unified 911 Cebu satellite command center for public safety and emergency preparedness in Cebu and the entire Visayas region.

“The facility is described as a future-oriented emergency management system that is more connected, efficient, and resilient, aligning with global standards for rapid crisis intervention. The integration of police, fire, medical, and rescue services under one unified system is expected to reduce response times and ensure smarter deployment of resources,” Nartatez explained, highlighting the significance of the center in ensuring faster and more effective emergency response.

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla on the other hand, outlined the next steps, including the implementation of 911 services, vehicles, ambulances, and fire trucks.

“The vision includes the deployment of long-range drones for 24/7 patrols in various cities, including Metro Manila, Cebu, and others.”  He also bared future plans and technological advancements including the introduction of Sky Net, which features long-range drones patrolling the skies.

The drones will be operational 24/7, seven days a week, and will respond quickly to 911 calls. The drones will take photos and ensure the safety of the public, marking a significant technological advancement.  This initiative is presented as a corruption-free system aimed at benefiting the entire Philippines, Remulla said. (Photos: MBCNewman)